Supercharge Your Sustainability: Battery Basics

Residents can bag and bring lithium-ion and other rechargeable batteries to collection sites for free safe disposal

The technology we use as part of our everyday lives has increased the number of battery-operated devices. From cellphones and tablets to power tools and small appliances, many household devices use rechargeable batteries to keep them running. Unlike classic alkaline batteries, rechargeable batteries contain chemicals that can pose a danger to the environment and people when improperly discarded.

Hillsborough County residents can dispose of bagged lithium-ion and other rechargeable household batteries six days a week from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at any of the County's four Community Collection Centers (CCC):

lead-acid batteries, commonly used in automobiles, boats, and recreational vehicles

Know before you go

Each battery must be placed in an individual plastic zip-close bag for safe transport, except for lead-acid batteries. For batteries that are too large for a baggie, such as battery packs, materials will be available at the CCC.

Large batteries, such as those used in laptops and power tools, are limited to 5 batteries per month, per household.

During transport, take care to prevent terminals from coming into contact with other battery terminals, which could cause short circuiting. Tape should not be used on battery terminals.

Disposal is available at no cost and will only require a photo ID showing residency in Hillsborough County.

Batteries from businesses will not be accepted.

Bag rechargeable batteries for safe transport and disposal at a CCC.

Batteries of any type should never be placed in your curbside recycling cart. Only alkaline batteries (common A, AA, AAA, C, D, 9-volt) can safely be disposed of in curbside trash carts. All other batteries, including rechargeable batteries, require special handling for safe disposal.

Single-use alkaline batteries can safely be disposed of in your trash cart.